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29th Annual Government Roundtable

July 1st-3rd 2025 | Grand Resort Lagonissi, Athens

Walking steadily across a tightrope of uncertainty

29th Annual Government Roundtable
“Walking steadily across a tightrope of uncertainty”

Economist Impact and Hazlis & Rivas have great pleasure in announcing the organisation of the 29th Annual Economist Government Roundtable.

This year’s theme “Walking steadily across a tightrope of uncertainty” aims to provide a unique platform for luminaries and forward thinkers from both sides of the Atlantic to come together for an in-depth, meaningful conversation on the global political, economic and business trends that will be shaping the world in the months to come. 

The new US administration has begun negotiations to end the war in Gaza and in Ukraine. Will President Trump succeed in bringing the interested parties to the table for a fair negotiation? What will the implications be for the countries in the region? During the months ahead, there is no doubt that we shall bear witness to the critical developments in the geopolitical landscape, international trade and the impact of tariffs, climate cooperation as well as US relations with Europe and Asia. 

The outcome of the two wars, NATO’s future strategy and Europe’s political and economic future are but a few of the crucial topics to be covered during the forthcoming three-day Government Roundtable in Athens.  

Central Banks monetary policies will be watched closely while significant challenges for the environment will remain. AI and technology shall take the lead in areas such as security, bioethics, democracy and employment.  

The Annual Economist Government Roundtable in Greece –which has been established as an institution for the past 29 years, shall discuss Europe’s future, geopolitics including foreign policy and defence, energy, AI and technology, sustainability, investment, health, banking and finance. Sessions will also be dedicated to Greece’s performance and the country’s role in the wider region.  

Heads of state, thought leaders, nobel laureates and prominent personalities from around the world including the Greek government and opposition shall take part in its proceedings.  

     

Register today!

Speakers

Daron Acemoglu

Nobel laureate in Economic Sciences (2024), Institute professor of economics

Stefanos Agiasoglou

Chief executive

John Andrews

Consultant editor

Kostas Andriosopoulos

Affiliate professor of finance and energy management, Alba Graduate Business School, ACG & director

Anne Applebaum

Journalist, author and historian (via connection)

Michael Arghyrou

Head of the Economics Office of the prime minister of Greece

Sudhanshu Asthana

Vice-president of EMEA-digital business

Odisseas Athanasiou

Chief executive

Agenda

8:30 am

Registration - Refreshments

9:00 am

Welcome remarks. The Economist’s outlook on the global economic and geopolitical landscape

As the world has entered an era of intense changes, the conference chairs highlight the prospects for sustainable peace in eastern Europe and the Middle East and also focus on protectionism and transactional foreign policy. Do we have a new global paradigm? Is it viable?


Daniel Franklin
, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
9:20 am

Are we heading towards the collapse of the rules-based international order?

It’s not normal for the world to simply have a unipolar power, according to Marco Rubio, US secretary of state. This session examines issues of global governance and transatlantic relations, also questioning whether Europe will take decisive steps towards strategic autonomy.


Constantine An. Tassoulas, president of the Hellenic Republic


Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Constantine An. Tassoulas
Constantine An. Tassoulas President of the Hellenic Republic
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
9:40 am

Europe’s future and south-east Europe’s pivotal role

As Europe stands at a crossroads, south-east Europe emerges as a key driver for the continent’s next chapter. This session explores the critical steps needed for deeper EU integration, strategies for strengthening democracy and the building of cohesive societies. It will assess how south-east European nations can advance reforms that promote peace, stability and prosperity — shaping not only their own future but that of Europe as a whole.


Annita Demetriou, president, Cypriot House of Representatives
Dora Bakoyannis, MP, chair, Parliamentary Standing Committee on National Defence and Foreign Affairs, former minister of foreign affairs of Greece


Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Annita Demetriou
Annita Demetriou President
Dora Bakoyannis
Dora Bakoyannis MP, chairperson, Parliamentary Standing Committee on National Defense and Foreign Affairs, Former minister of foreign affairs of Greece
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
10:05 am

Interview. Ukraine: The next day

The change of leadership in the US and Donald Trump’s approach to Russia have created a new landscape not only regarding the war itself but also the broader transatlantic security framework. What can the people of Ukraine expect under the current circumstances? What role is European solidarity expected to play in the country’s future?


Oleksii Sobolev
, first deputy minister of economy, Government of Ukraine (via connection)

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Oleksii Sobolev
Oleksii Sobolev First deputy minister of economy
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
10:15 am

Border politics: Europe in the "constellation" of migration

The effectiveness of asylum granting, co-operation with third countries and the co-ordination of EU member states for the distribution of migration flows are of concern to European governments. This session will explore the best practices that the EU should adopt in managing migration, also taking into account the demographic needs of the “Old Continent”.


Magnus Brunner
, commissioner for internal affairs and migration, European Commission
Thanos Plevris, minister of immigration and asylum, Government of Greece

Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Magnus Brunner
Magnus Brunner Commissioner for internal affairs and migration
Thanos Plevris
Thanos Plevris Minister of migration and asylum
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
10:35 am

Networking break

11:00 am

Competitiveness: the key word for Europe’s future

Europe must profoundly re-focus its collective efforts to close the innovation gap with the US and China, especially in advanced technologies, according to the Draghi report on EU competitiveness. This session will highlight policies that can change this and will examine how politicians, institutions and businesses can collaborate within this context.


Mario Draghi
, former prime minister of Italy, former president of the European Central Bank (ECB)

The business perspective:
Evangelos Mytilineos, chairman and chief executive, Metlen Energy & Metals, president, Eurometaux (European Metals Association)

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Mario Draghi
Mario Draghi Former prime minister of Italy, Former president
Evangelos Mytilineos
Evangelos Mytilineos Chairman and chief executive, Metlen Energy & Metals, President
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
12:00 pm

Inside Putin's mind: What's next?

Anne Applebaum to explore and discuss the real motivations behind the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the mistakes of the West that did not prevent the war, and the new reality shaping the future of European security in the Donald Trump era.

Anne Applebaum, journalist, author and historian (via connection)

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Anne Applebaum
Anne Applebaum Journalist, author and historian (via connection)
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
12:20 pm

How are America and Europe redefining their place in the world?

In view of the developments in US foreign and trade policy this session discusses how transatlantic relations are evolving. What will be the impact on the eastern Mediterranean region? What does the new US administration’s agenda signify for global trade, investment and energy security? The session shall also address the growing influence of China and Russia in the global economic and technological landscape and the implications for Europe’s strategic autonomy, sovereignty and economic resilience.


Mike Pompeo
, 70th US secretary of state 

The business perspective:
Joakim Reiter, chief external and corporate affairs officer, Vodafone Group

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Mike Pompeo
Mike Pompeo 70th US Secretary of State, executive chairman
Joakim Reiter
Joakim Reiter Chief external and corporate affairs officer
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
1:00 pm

Implications for Europe and the wider region in the aftermath of the US leadership change

The Gaza war, the Israel-Iran conflict, and the developments in Syria, among others, are constantly reshaping the political and security landscape in a wider region, directly affecting EU’s strategy and interests. How do these developments interact with the new framework of transatlantic relations under Donald Trump’s administration? Apart from the tough challenges, are there any opportunities to deepen co-operation and foster peace and stability?


George Gerapetritis
, minister of foreign affairs, Government of Greece
Annalena Baerbock, former foreign minister of Germany, president-elect (incoming) of the 80th Assembly, United Nations

Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

George Gerapetritis
George Gerapetritis Minister of foreign affairs
Annalena Baerbock
Annalena Baerbock Former foreign minister, Germany President-elect (incoming) of the 80th Assembly
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
1:20 pm

Europe’s strategy on defence and security - Part I

All NATO member countries should spend 5% of their GDP on defence, according to the US president, Donald Trump. Will America step aside from its commitment to transatlantic security? Are we moving towards a radically different Euro-Atlantic security architecture? At the same time, how should NATO evolve in the face of new threats? Is the EU determined to upgrade its defence industry?

The Economist in dialogue with:
Nikolaos Dendias
, minister of national defence, Government of Greece

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Nikolaos Dendias
Nikolaos Dendias Minister of national defence
1:35 pm

Europe’s strategy on defence and security – Part II

All NATO member countries should spend 5% of their GDP on defence, according to the US president, Donald Trump. Will America step aside from its commitment to transatlantic security? Are we moving towards a radically different Euro-Atlantic security architecture? At the same time, how should NATO evolve in the face of new threats? Is the EU determined to upgrade its defence industry?


The Economist
in dialogue with:
Radmila Shekerinska, deputy secretary-general, NATO
Sir Patrick Sanders, general, former chief of the general staff, UK, chairman of Herminius Strategic Intelligence

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Radmila Shekerinska
Radmila Shekerinska Deputy secretary-general
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
1:55 pm

The stakes of regional security

The latest developments in the Middle East, the realignments in Syria and the dynamics of the new US foreign policy will be at the centre of this session. The discussion will also include an overview of the trajectory of Greek-Turkish relations and the geopolitics of the eastern Mediterranean.


Ahmet Davutoğlu
, former prime minister of Turkey
Dimitris Avramopoulos, former European commissioner for migration, home affairs and citizenship, former minister of foreign affairs of Greece

Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Ahmet Davutoğlu
Ahmet Davutoğlu Former prime minister of Turkey
Dimitris Avramopoulos
Dimitris Avramopoulos Former European commissioner for migration, home affairs and citizenship and former minister of foreign affairs
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
2:20 pm

Trump and the world: the new geopolitics of trade, energy, diplomacy & war

How does the Trump administration's trade and foreign policies affect the global geopolitical landscape? Which trends are likely to gain momentum and which not? Is there a predictable equilibrium ahead?

Hryhoriy Nemyria, first deputy chairman, Foreign Affairs Committee, Parliament of Ukraine, former deputy prime minister, Government of Ukraine
David Harris, former chief executive, American Jewish Committee, executive vice-chair, Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy (ISGAP)
John Sitilides, senior fellow for national security, Foreign Policy Research Institute, fmr diplomacy consultant, US Department of State (2006-23), geopolitical strategist, Trilogy Advisors

Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Hryhoriy Nemyria
Hryhoriy Nemyria First deputy chairman, Foreign Affairs Committee, Parliament of Ukraine, Former deputy prime minister
David Harris
David Harris Former chief executive, American Jewish Committee, Executive vice-chair
John Sitilides
John Sitilides Senior fellow for national security, Foreign Policy Research Institute, Former diplomacy consultant, US Department of State, Geopolitical strategist
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
2:50 pm

Inequalities, populism and the far-right phenomenon in Europe

The rise of the populist right is seen by some as a symptom of social inequalities in Europe. The economic pressure on the middle class –the backbone of social cohesion– remains at the heart of the debate, a fact that raises questions about the growth model that European governments should follow.


Martin Schulz
, former president of the European Parliament
Pierre Moscovici, first president, French Cour des Comptes, former European commissioner
Anna Diamantopoulou, president of DIKTIO – Network for Reform in Greece and Europe, former European commissioner for employment, social affairs and equal opportunities

Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Martin Schulz
Martin Schulz Former president of the European Parliament
Pierre Moscovici
Pierre Moscovici First president, French Cour des Comptes, former European commissioner
Anna Diamantopoulou
Anna Diamantopoulou President, DIKTIO – Network for Reform in Greece and Europe, Former European commissioner for employment, social affairs and equal opportunities
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
3:20 pm

Luncheon

7:30 pm

Cocktail reception

8:30 pm

Opening dinner

PART I
Democracy at a crossroads?
The rise of authoritarian leaders in a world of major economic, geopolitical, and technological upheaval seems to pose a threat to democracy. What are the underlying factors for the decline of democracy? What should liberal and progressive political forces redefine in their relationship with citizens?


Stephen Fry, actor, broadcaster, author
Geoffrey Robertson KC, founding head, Doughty Street Chambers

PART II
The significance of soft power diplomacy in strengthening cultural relations
How can cultural diplomacy play a pivotal role in the midst of the current changing geopolitical order? Can the return of the Parthenon Sculptures serve as a paradigm of international collaboration based on shared values? We shall discuss the obstacles and opportunities for Greece and the UK as they try to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. 


Melissa Lefas
, board member, Parthenon Project

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Stephen Fry
Stephen Fry Αctor, broadcaster, author
Geoffrey Robertson
Geoffrey Robertson Founding head
Melissa Lefas
Melissa Lefas Board member
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
8:30 am

Refreshments

9:00 am

Regional and inter-regional co-operation in energy and the challenges for energy security and transition

Geopolitical conflicts have complicated the path towards decarbonisation and the much-needed international co-operation in energy. What is the role of SE Europe’s energy corridors and of the eastern Mediterranean’s energy resources? How is the green transition evolving in Europe and Greece? How can Europe enhance its collaboration with its neighbours to increase its energy security? Which business partnerships may turn challenges into opportunities?


Stavros Papastavrou
, minister for environment and energy, Government of Greece
George Papanastasiou, minister of energy, commerce and industry, Government of Cyprus
Dorin Junghietu, minister of energy, Government of Moldova
Orkhan Zeynalov, deputy minister of energy, Government of Azerbaijan
Iva Petrova, deputy minister of energy, Government of Bulgaria
Geoffrey Pyatt, former assistant secretary of state for energy, US Department of State, former US Ambassador to Greece
Osama Mobarez, secretary-general, East Mediterranean Gas Forum

In dialogue with business:
Dan Stratan, chief executive and founder, RCI holding, Romania
Andreas Shiamishis, chief executive, HELLENiQ ENERGY
Fabrizio Mattana, chief executive, IGI Poseidon
Maria Rita Galli, chief executive, DESFA
Notis Sardelas, managing partner, Sardelas Petsa Law Firm

Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Stavros Papastavrou
Stavros Papastavrou Minister of environment and energy
George Papanastasiou
George Papanastasiou Minister of energy, commerce and industry
Dorin Junghietu
Dorin Junghietu Minister of energy
Orkhan Zeynalov
Orkhan Zeynalov Deputy minister of energy
Iva Petrova
Iva Petrova Deputy minister of energy
Geoffrey Pyatt
Geoffrey Pyatt Former assistant secretary of state for energy, US Department of State, former US Ambassador to Greece
Osama Mobarez
Osama Mobarez Secretary-general
Dan Stratan
Dan Stratan Chief executive and founder
Andreas Shiamishis
Andreas Shiamishis Chief executive
Fabrizio Mattana
Fabrizio Mattana Chief executive
Maria Rita Galli
Maria Rita Galli Chief executive
Notis Sardelas
Notis Sardelas Managing partner
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
10:15 am

Combatting climate change: the need to re-evaluate strategy

Scientists and environmental activists worry that the Paris Agreement’s climate goals can no longer be achieved. If so, what are the alternatives? What needs to change in the strategy of governments and institutions to keep up with the demands of the climate crisis? The panel will focus, among other topics, on the benefits of the circular economy.


Alexandra Sdoukou
, chair, EmpowerMed Women, EMGF, spokesperson, New Democracy
Sir David King, fmr permanent special representative for climate change, chair, Climate Crisis Advisory Group, UK

In dialogue with business:
Dimitris Chanis, chief executive, HERACLES Group, member of Holcim
Aristotelis Chantavas, chief executive, Principia, president, SolarPower Europe
Kostas Andriosopoulos, affiliate professor of finance and energy management, Alba Graduate Business School, ACG  & director of the HELLENiQ Energy Center for Sustainability and Energy @Alba

Co-chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist
Andreas Papandreou, professor, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, co-chair UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Greece (SDSN Greece)

Alexandra Sdoukou
Alexandra Sdoukou Spokesperson
Sir David King
Sir David King Fmr permanent special representative for climate change, Chair
Dimitris Chanis
Dimitris Chanis Chief executive
Aristotelis Chantavas
Aristotelis Chantavas Chief executive, Principia, President
Kostas Andriosopoulos
Kostas Andriosopoulos Affiliate professor of finance and energy management, Alba Graduate Business School, ACG & director
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
Andreas Papandreou
Andreas Papandreou Professor, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Co-chair
11:00 am

The Economist in dialogue with:

Alexandros Exarchou, chairman and chief executive, AKTOR Group of Companies

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Alexandros Exarchou
Alexandros Exarchou Chairman and chief executive
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
11:15 am

Networking break

11:35 am

Examining the opportunities and challenges in the era of agentic AI

As the US-China struggle for tech supremacy intensifies, Europe aims to become more competitive in the field of digital disruption and AI. At the same time, agentic AI (the artificial intelligence capable of making autonomous decisions and taking actions based on its analysis) has raised much discussion on both the benefits and challenges that come with it.


Francis Fukuyama
, senior fellow, Centre on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law, Stanford University
Dimitris Papastergiou, minister of digital governance, Government of Greece

In dialogue with business:
Sudhanshu Asthana, vice-president of EMEA-digital business, Iron Mountain
Georgios Sioufas, managing partner, Sioufas & Associates Law Firm
Alexandros Bregiannis, chief executive, Nova ICT
Alexandros Manos, chief executive, Netcompany SEE & EUI
Effie Presvia, general manager, information & technology, PPC
Bill Karnazes, CSO & GM of corporate services, Viohalco companies

Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Francis Fukuyama
Francis Fukuyama Senior fellow
Dimitris Papastergiou
Dimitris Papastergiou Minister of digital governance
Sudhanshu Asthana
Sudhanshu Asthana Vice-president of EMEA-digital business
Georgios Sioufas
Georgios Sioufas Managing partner and founder
Alexandros Manos
Alexandros Manos Chief executive
Effie Presvia
Effie Presvia General manager, information & technology
Bill Karnazes
Bill Karnazes CSO & GM of corporate services
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
12:40 pm

Can renewable energy and competitiveness go hand in hand?

“High energy costs in Europe are an obstacle to growth, while lack of generation and grid capacity could impede the spread of digital tech and transport electrification,” notes Mario Draghi’s report on EU competitiveness. Where does Greece stand within this context? What does it mean for the country’s renewable energy strategy and the development of its electricity network? Is the Greek energy market sustainably regulated?


Alexandra Sdoukou
, chair, EmpowerMed Women, EMGF, spokesperson, New Democracy
Kristian Ruby, secretary-general, Eurelectric

In dialogue with business:
Manos Manousakis, chairman & chief executive, Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO)
Antonis Metaxas, managing partner, Metaxas & Associates Law Firm

Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Alexandra Sdoukou
Alexandra Sdoukou Spokesperson
Kristian Ruby
Kristian Ruby Secretary-general
Manos Manousakis
Manos Manousakis Chairman & chief executive
Antonis Metaxas
Antonis Metaxas Managing partner
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
1:15 pm

The debate on human enhancement and transhumanism

The gradual dominance of emerging technologies has shaped a trend of thought according to which we need to transcend the typical limits of our species to respond to our world’s new demands (mental and physical abilities). This session highlights the ongoing debate on whether human enhancement should be welcomed or feared.


Stathis Kalyvas,
Gladstone professor of government and fellow of All Souls College, University of Oxford
Theofanis Tasis, lecturer of contemporary philosophy, Alpen-Adria University, Austria
Sophia Efstathiou, professor of ethics, The American College of Greece
Andreas Petropoulos, chief executive, iKnowHealth

Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Stathis Kalyvas
Stathis Kalyvas Gladstone professor of government and fellow at All Souls College
Theofanis Tasis
Theofanis Tasis Lecturer of contemporary philosophy
Sophia Efstathiou
Sophia Efstathiou Professor of ethics
Andreas Petropoulos
Andreas Petropoulos Chief executive
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
1:50 pm

Young inventors suggest AI solutions in agriculture

This session focuses on the efforts and aspirations of two young inventors and entrepreneurs in the field of farming. GreenWave is an innovative system that translates plants’ needs based on their ultrasounds into useful information for farmers.


Yiannis Thimianidis
, co-founder of GreenWave, Forbes “30 under 30” list for 2025
Nefeli Zikou, co-founder of GreenWave, Forbes “30 under 30” list for 2025 (via connection)
Sofia Zacharaki, minister of education, religious affairs and sports, Government of Greece

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Yiannis Thimianidis
Yiannis Thimianidis Co-founder of GreenWave, Forbes “30 under 30” list for 2025
Nefeli Zikou
Nefeli Zikou Co-founder of GreenWave, Forbes “30 under 30” list for 2025 (via connection)
Sofia Zacharaki
Sofia Zacharaki Minister of education, religious affairs and sports
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
2:15 pm

The Economist in dialogue with:


Socratis Famellos
, president, SYRIZA-Progressive Alliance

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Socratis Famellos
Socratis Famellos President
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
2:25 pm

A global and regional outlook on investment: current and future trends in private equity and asset management

The Economist in dialogue with:

John Koudounis, president and chief executive, Calamos Investments
Dean Metropoulos, chairman and chief executive, Metropoulos & Co.

Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

 

John Koudounis
John Koudounis President and chief executive
Dean Metropoulos
Dean Metropoulos Chairman and chief executive
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
2:45 pm

Driving growth in Greece and Europe

The business environment is the catalyst for investment and growth. EU countries have implemented significant reforms overcoming successive crises. However, the competitiveness deficit remains a challenge for Europe which is now faced with a trade war scenery. Furthermore, Greece has implemented significant reforms, although it started from a low base due to the multi-year crisis. The next steps in facilitating business will determine future GDP growth rates.


Takis Theodorikakos, minister of development, Government of Greece
Doina Nistor, deputy prime minister and minister of economic development and digitalisation, Government of Moldova
Michał Baranowski, undersecretary of state, Ministry of Economic Development and Technology, Government of Poland (via connection)
Andreas Fiorentinos, secretary-general, Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO)

Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Takis Theodorikakos
Takis Theodorikakos Minister of development
Doina Nistor
Doina Nistor Deputy prime minister, Minister of economic development and digitalisation
Michal Baranowski
Michal Baranowski Undersecretary of state, Ministry of Economic Development and Technology
Andreas Fiorentinos
Andreas Fiorentinos Secretary-general
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
3:15 pm

Luncheon

7:00 pm

Cocktail reception

8:00 pm

Prime Minister’s Gala dinner

The global economy: Tariffs without borders?
As the new American administration moves to impose tariffs on the EU and China, concerns are mounting on what an escalating trade war could mean for the global economy. Are we heading towards a situation in which protectionism will become the norm and free trade will be marginalised?


Greece and the global tightrope
A country at the core of the European Union and a key player in the Eastern Mediterranean, Greece has to position its foreign policy within the emerging new dynamics of global security, and its economic policy against the backdrop of trade tensions. How will it maintain a steady balance?


A fireside chat with:
Guests of honour and keynote speakers
Kyriakos Mitsotakis, prime minister of Greece
Daron Acemoglu, Institute professor of economics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Nobel laureate in Economic Sciences (2024)

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Kyriakos Mitsotakis
Kyriakos Mitsotakis Prime minister of Greece
Daron Acemoglu
Daron Acemoglu Nobel laureate in Economic Sciences (2024), Institute professor of economics
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
9:15 am

Refreshments

9:30 am

Greece is making progress: Is it enough?

The Greek economy is growing steadily at a rate above the euro zone average. However, there is significant room for improvement in terms of investment and purchasing power. What is the path forward?


Joan Hoey
, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence
Michael Arghyrou, head of the economics office of the prime minister of Greece
George Pagoulatos
, ambassador of Greece to the OECD
Giovanni Callegari, head of economic risk analysis and country team co-ordinator for Greece, ESM
Theodore Skylakakis, former alternate minister of finance responsible for fiscal policy, MP, New Democracy

Chaired by:
John Papageorgiou, journalist, EU affairs reporter, Athens Municipal Radio, founder and head, Athens Digest

Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
Michael Arghyrou
Michael Arghyrou Head of the Economics Office of the prime minister of Greece
George Pagoulatos
George Pagoulatos Ambassador of Greece to the OECD
Giovanni Callegari
Giovanni Callegari Head of economic risk analysis and country team coordinator for Greece
Theodore Skylakakis
Theodore Skylakakis Former alt. minister of finance responsible for fiscal policy, Greece Member of Parliament State
John Papageorgiou
John Papageorgiou Journalist, EU affairs reporter Athens Municipal Radio, Founder & head
10:15 am

Business and investment environment in 2025: Which sectors are the game-changers?

This session will focus on the significant developments regarding investment in Greece and the broader region as well as the reforms that unleash competition and innovation, including the challenges that businesses and potential investors face.


Nikos Papathanasis
, alternate minister of national economy & finance, Government of Greece
Michael Jacobides, Sir Donald Gordon professor of entrepreneurship and innovation,
professor of strategy, London Business School
Colin Ellis, global credit strategist, Moody’s Investors Service
Stefanos Agiasoglou, chief executive, Public Road Transport
Dimitris Primpas, general manager, IBM Greece & Cyprus
Stefan Kraus, chief operating officer, member of the executive committee, Henley & Partners

Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Nikos Papathanasis
Nikos Papathanasis Alternate minister of economy and finance
Michael Jacobides
Michael Jacobides Sir Donald Gordon professor of entrepreneurship and innovation, Professor of strategy
Colin Ellis
Colin Ellis Global credit strategist and head, Centre for Credit Research
Stefanos Agiasoglou
Stefanos Agiasoglou Chief executive
Dimitris Primpas
Dimitris Primpas General manager
Stefan Kraus
Stefan Kraus Chief operating officer, member of the executive committee
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
11:10 am

The encrypted side of a digital economy

Cryptocurrency and blockchain are gaining ground in the world of fintech. Transactions are becoming increasingly digital –and increasingly complex– creating both opportunities and risks. This panel will assess the real-world value of an invisible technology. Is it worth the hype? Investors and fintech leaders will share their insight.


Roundtable discussion:
Jürgen Schaaf, adviser, market infrastructure & payments department, European Central Bank (ECB)
Gregory Dellas, group chief compliance and risk officer, ECOMMBX, chair, ACAMS Cyprus Chapter


Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Jürgen Schaaf
Jürgen Schaaf Adviser, Market infrastructure and payments department
Gregory Dellas
Gregory Dellas Group chief compliance and risk officer, ECOMMBX, Chair
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
11:30 am

Networking break

12:00 pm

Single capital market: much more than a market?

This session will focus on the reduction of fragmentation, attraction of investments and acceleration of growth, and will further discuss the deepening of European capital markets and the role of the banks and business within the new scheme.


Enrico Letta
, EU rapporteur on the future of the single market, president, Jacques Delors Institute, former prime minister of Italy
Gikas Hardouvelis, chairman, Hellenic Bank Association, chairman of the BoD, National Βank of Greece

Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Enrico Letta
Enrico Letta EU rapporteur on the future of the single market; president, Jacques Delors Institute; former prime minister of Italy (via connection)
Gikas Hardouvelis
Gikas Hardouvelis Chairman, Hellenic Bank Association, Chairman of the BoD
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
12:20 pm

Re-introducing Athens through the Ellinikon project

Considered the largest urban regeneration project in Europe, the Ellinikon project has raised expectations regarding its decisive contribution to the residential, economic, environmental and aesthetic revitalisation of Athens. How is the project progressing so far? What are the challenges?


Odisseas Athanasiou
, chief executive, LAMDA Development

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Odisseas Athanasiou
Odisseas Athanasiou Chief executive
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
12:30 pm

The Greek and European pharmaceutical industry: Investments – Competitiveness – Innovation

What are the biggest challenges facing the pharmaceutical industry in Greece and Europe today? How can the pharmaceutical industry improve patients access to treatments and also contribute to the upgrade of public health care?


Adonis Georgiadis
, minister of health, Government of Greece
Theodore Tryfon, president, PanHellenic Union of Pharmaceutical Industry (PEF), BoD member, Hellenic Federation of Enterprises (SEV), BoD executive member, Medicines for Europe
Vassilis Kontozamanis, former alternate minister of health, member of the management board, European Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA)
Dimitrios Demos, president & chief executive, DEMO, vice-president, PanHellenic Union of Pharmaceutical Industry (PEF)

Chaired by:
Costas Papachlimintzos, journalist, ERT

Adonis Georgiadis
Adonis Georgiadis Minister of health
Theodore Tryfon
Theodore Tryfon President, PanHellenic Union of Pharmaceutical Industry (PEF), BoD member, Hellenic Federation of Enterprises (SEV), BoD executive member
Vassilis Kontozamanis
Vassilis Kontozamanis Former alternate minister of health, member of the management board
Costas Papachlimintzos
Costas Papachlimintzos Journalist
1:15 pm

Unlocking Greece’s potential as a life sciences innovation hub

As global competition for investment in life sciences intensifies, Europe risks falling behind in research, innovation, and clinical development (European Commission, 2025). This session will explore how Greece can position itself as a dynamic and competitive destination for investment in innovative life sciences, such as clinical trials.

Marios Themistocleous, deputy minister of health, Government of Greece
Panos Kanavos, associate professor of international health policy, deputy director at LSE Health, London School of Economics (via connection)
Ilona Torontali, global head pharma pricing and reimbursement, Roche


Chaired by:
John Andrews, consultant editor, The Economist

Marios Themistocleous
Marios Themistocleous Deputy minister of health
Panos Kanavos
Panos Kanavos Associate professor of international health policy, deputy director at LSE Health
Ilona Torontali
Ilona Torontali Global head pharma pricing and reimbursement
John Andrews
John Andrews Consultant editor
1:45 pm

How do trade wars affect global maritime transport?

Donald Trump’s tariffs and his recent claims over the Panama Canal underline that we have entered a new era in global maritime transport. The US-China competition is escalating and the commitment to free trade has been dealt severe blows. Where does Greek shipping stand within this context?


Harry Theoharis, deputy minister of foreign affairs, Government of Greece
George Tsavliris
, principal, Tsavliris Salvage Group
Antonio Taquis, chief executive and owner, Panama Shipping Agency & Services, former ambassador of Panama to Greece, Cyprus and Ukraine


Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Harry Theoharis
Harry Theoharis Deputy minister of foreign affairs
George Tsavliris
George Tsavliris Principal
Antonio Taquis
Antonio Taquis Former ambassador of Panama to Greece, Cyprus and Ukraine, Chief executive and owner
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
2:15 pm

The prospects for Greece and Europe and the rising uncertainty in the global economy

The Greek economy continues to outperform the euro zone average in terms of growth rate. However, there is much concern about the rise of protectionism and geopolitical turmoil. This session will discuss the prospects for the Greek economy within the European framework, Greece’s fiscal sustainability and the country’s ability to press on with investment-friendly reforms.


Kyriakos Pierrakakis
, minister of economy and finance, Greece
Alfred Kammer, director, European Department, International Monetary Fund (IMF)
Pavlos Mylonas, chief executive, National Bank of Greece

Chaired by:
Joan Hoey, editor of the Democracy Index and Europe consultant, Economist Intelligence

Kyriakos Pierrakakis
Kyriakos Pierrakakis Director of research
Alfred Kammer
Alfred Kammer Director of the European Department
Pavlos Mylonas
Pavlos Mylonas Chief executive
Joan Hoey
Joan Hoey Editor, The Democracy Index
3:00 pm

Closing session. The Economist in dialogue with:

Kostis Hatzidakis, deputy prime minister, Greece

Chaired by:
Daniel Franklin, executive editor and senior editor, Britain, The Economist

Kostis Hatzidakis
Kostis Hatzidakis Deputy prime minister
Daniel Franklin
Daniel Franklin Executive editor and senior editor, Britain
3:15 pm

Luncheon

4:30 pm

End of conference

Sponsors

Founding sponsor

NBG

Platinum sponsor

PPC
VODAFONE
IRON MOUNTAIN
IGI POSEIDON

Gold sponsor

AKTOR
THE PANHELLENIC PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (PEF)
ROCHE
EDISON
SARDELAS PETSA LAW FIRM
netcompany

Premium silver sponsor

HANIKIAN LAW FIRM
IKH-iKnowHow

Silver sponsor

Panama shipping agency services
CALAMOS INVESTMENTS
QUALCO GROUP
HELLENiQ ENERGY
ECOMMBX
ARTEKS ENGINEERING
HERACLES GROUP
Viohalco

Bronze sponsor

VIVARTIA
OSY
IPTO
DESFA
LAMDA DEVELOPMENT
HEDNO
Desiterra

Supporting organisation

Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO)

Academic Partner

ALBA

Telecommunications provider

NOVA

Airline carrier

AEGEAN

Media Partner

THE POWER GAME
ENERGY GAME

Contributor

pwc
Olympus spring
DIAGEO
ATHENS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
EYDAP
DEPA INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS
METAXAS AND ASSOCIATES
AVANT GLOBAL

Communication sponsor

ALTER EGO MEDIA
APOGEVMATINH
APOGEVMATINH KYRIAKHS

Logistics supplier

DHL

Communication supporter

PARAPOLITIKA

Wine sponsor

Boutari

Official travel agent

AKTINA TRAVEL GROUP

Supporter

Proelectro
ARTECNIKO
FCA HYGIENE

Web development

E-MILLES CREATIONS

Digital agency

ADPIXEL

Delegrate registration

Option A: Conference sessions

€1.800 tax/VAT excl.

  • Full 3-day conference
  • 3 networking luncheons
  • Coffee breaks

Option B: Conference sessions and dinners

€2.200 tax/VAT excl.

  • Full 3-day conference 3
  • networking luncheons coffee breaks and cocktail receptions
  • 2 Gala Dinners

Corporate table

€7.500 tax/VAT excl./ table (8 seats)

  • This option includes participation of 8 persons at: full 3-day conference 3 networking luncheons coffee breaks

Venue

Escape in a haven of relaxation and grandeur by the azure of the sea, delve in the pleasures of luxury and experience the epitome of indulgence in the dreamiest island-like resort of the Athenian Riviera. Nuzzled in a 72-acre private peninsula in the Athenian Riviera with stunning views to the Saronic Gulf, the 5 star Grand Resort Lagonissi exceeds all expectations of a luxury sea front summer resort.

Grand Resort Lagonissi 40th km Athens Sounion, Lagonissi Attica, Athens

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